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They say we should never settle, but that’s exactly what travelers ultimately do when they visit some of the most sought-after destinations on earth.
When it comes to Europe, certain icons like Barcelona are brazenly labeling their beautiful streets with graffiti in a guerrilla anti-tourism campaign, while others, like Paris, are still as vibrant as ever.
But the truth is, you don’t have to weave through sidewalks from elbow to elbowwait in long lines or pay rising prices just because it’s summer.
According to Expedia.comthere are 3 surprising outings with an influx of travelers who want to experience less crowds.
That may seem like a bit of an oxymoron – more travelers for fewer people – but it makes sense when the places in question aren’t the usual suspects and everyone has already exceeded their selfie stick.
Without further ado, here’s where travelers are heading in Europe this summer to avoid the hordes of fellow tourists.
Manchester, UK 🇬🇧
It’s not just men across the pond adventuring across Britain, far away from the London summer hustle and bustle; they are travelers around the world looking for the pleasures of the historic country with some extra breathing room.
London’s pubs are not only expensive, but also quite a challenge to get a bar stool among all the double-decker tours.
But Manchester? It feels more like the real Englandwith real pubs, rough but cool neighborhoods, bustling markets and a music scene that has shaped British culture for decades
Better yet, Expedia claims Manchester sees a 15% drop in average hotel prices across the board.
If experiencing a refreshingly old-fashioned (and more affordable) side of Britain piques your interest, you may not know that there are 4 direct flights from the US to Manchester (MAN) offered by Virgin Atlantic:
- Las Vegas (LAS) – seasonal
- Orlando (MCO)
- Atlanta (ATL)
- New York City (JFK)
Travelers score the British safety level on our safety index at 89/100:
Courchevel, France
Maybe it’s just me, but the name Courchevel makes me want to plop down on a picturesque terrace, eat way too much cheese, and maybe just a little wine – okay, a lot…
Courchevel may not ring a bell to outsiders, but it is a very popular spot, hidden in the vertiginous French Alps, best known for skiing and spending way too much money.
Think of it as the “Aspen” of France.
However, summer time lowers those high prices a lot Expedia reports a 20% discount on hotel rates.
Courcheval’s own tourism board calls their picture-postcard village great for walking, mountain biking, e-biking, climbing, paragliding, golf, fishing, swimming, spa days and family-friendly activities such as treetop adventure courses.
Most notably, there is something for adrenaline junkies via ferrataa protected climbing route along the cliffs with fixed cables and metal rungs that gives beginners a taste of alpine mountaineering.
The ski season came to an end in April, but summer officially begins on July 4 when the focus shifts to hiking and the aforementioned outdoor activities.
Travelers score the French safety level on our safety index at 87/100:
Getting here is also quite easy, although a bit winding and confusing.
You actually want to fly there Geneva, Switzerlandanother infamous wallet drainer. There are several transfer options to choose from.
There are 3 direct flights from Geneva (GVA) to the US
- Newark (EWR) – United
- New York City (JFK) – Swiss
- Washington DC (IAD) – United
Thasos, Greece
Think of this virtually unheard of island as the ‘anti-Santorini’ of Greece – you know, fewer selfie sticks, much fewer crowds in general, and much better prices that won’t eat into your paycheck for a two-night stay.
Thasos is one of Greece’s many up-and-coming islands, but travelers seem particularly drawn to this island this summer – and with typical rates reduced by 30%According to Expedia, it’s easy to see why.
You’ll find the same blue and white dreamscape as Santorini and others, but instead of feeling the need to wake up at the crack of dawn like I had to do for the perfect photo, you can sleep in like a local and enjoy a slower pace in paradise.
The beaches are gleaming gold, the waters are impossibly blue and the pine-covered hills live up to the nickname ‘Emerald Island’, providing the perfect backdrop.
And be sure to visit a local market to enjoy Thasos’ famous olive oil, honey and island-made delicacies, many of which come from the olive groves that cover those same hills.
Travelers score the Greek safety level on our safety index with 89/100:
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